England’s oldest hotel gets 21st century revival with new chef top of the menu

The oldest hotel in England has been given a £1.1m refurbishment, marking a new chapter in the property’s history.

The Grade-I listed The Old Bell Hotel in Wiltshire, which dates back to 1220, has been given a complete restoration across its dining areas and 34 bedrooms, with a new head chef coming on board to ramp up proceedings in the kitchen.

The renovation project at the 12th century building was overseen by general manager Christopher Dumeige, who said the team was ‘thrilled’ with the outcome, after introducing a new level of luxury to the property.

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New head chef Frédéric Fetiveau now heads up The Old Bell kitchen and has transformed the dining experience. He began his passion for creating fine dining in Paris where he trained with various Michelin starred establishments including, Hotel le Bristol, Royal Monceau and Carré des Feuillants.

Commenting on the hotel’s new look, GM Dumeige commented: “The bedrooms have been uplifted by Creative Director Mykel Collins and the dining experience completely overhauled with a brand-new kitchen, dining areas and the strategic appointment of new head chef Frédéric Fetiveau who has transformed the menus and food concept.”